An Ivory Okimono With Blind Travelers Defending Themselves From An Attack

Ivory okimono with blind travelers defending themselves from the aggression of four scoundrels who try to rob them of their bags and food.

The scene involves nine characters, three of whom receive sticks, umbrellas and punches.

One of the most curious moments is the character at the top, who loses a geta during the battle. In a gesture of instinct and necessity, he clings to the closest companion below him to maintain his balance, while firmly clutching a large umbrella as a defensive weapon.

Signed Ryūkōsai Shūgyoku under the base.

For a similar okimono, see the drawing depicting a quarrel between blind men, published in “The Meinertzhagen Card Index on Netsuke in the Archives of the British Museum, Part B, 1986, page 1006, drawn by Meinertzhagen himself. (see photo n. 40)

Origin: Japan

Period: Meiji end of 19th century.

Dimensions: 10 x 12.5 x 8.5 cm.

State of conservation: Very good